How Does Eliot Distinguish between ‘the Unification of Sensibility’ and ‘the Dissociation of sensibility’?
The Metaphysical Poets is a notable literary work by T. S. Eliot. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of The Metaphysical Poets.
Answer
How does Eliot distinguish between ‘the unification of sensibility’ and ‘the dissociation of sensibility’?
T.S. Eliot (1888-1965) was both a poet and a critic. His essay “The Metaphysical Poets” was published in 1921. Eliot discusses two concepts: unification and dissociation of sensibility. He explains how these ideas shaped poetry. Here are the main differences Eliot shows.
Unification of Sensibility: Unification means joining thought and feeling. Old poets used this in their poems. They mixed mind and heart in writing. Eliot says about metaphysical poets like Donne:
“A thought to Donne was an experience; it modified his sensibility.”
This quote means old poets lived their ideas as feelings. Their poetry joined emotions with thinking. This gave poems life and power. Eliot says this type of poetry is true and strong.
Dissociation of Sensibility: Dissociation refers to the separation of thought and emotion. Later poets, such as Tennyson and Browning, lost the old unity. They began to write by simply thinking. Eliot explains,
“In the seventeenth century a dissociation of sensibility set in, from which we have never recovered.”
This quote shows the big change. Poets stopped joining mind and heart. Their poems became colder and less lively. Feelings were missing from much of their work. Poetry was less close to real life.
Poetry Style: Old poetry is deep and full. It joins many human feelings and facts. Later, poetry follows rules more strictly. It feels dry and distant at times. Unification made poetry rich and lasting.
Eliot’s Preference: Eliot prefers the unified style. He admires poets who mix thoughts and feelings. He believes this makes poetry beautiful and natural. He wants poets to return to this way.
In short, Eliot shows the big gap in poetry. Unification joins thought and emotion in strong poems. Dissociation keeps them apart and weakens poetry. Eliot’s ideas continue to guide poets and students today.